10 Best Beaches in Grand Cayman

Cemetery Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who are looking for a more tranquil, less crowded beach experience than typically found on Seven Mile. Soft white sand (of course), and shady Seagrape trees await you after the brief walk along the walled edge of the cemetery, which gives the beach its name.

Renowned as a great spot for snorkelling, there is a reef located in about 30ft of water, at a distance of about a 6-minute swim offshore. Watch out for the current though as it can be strong in this area, but proficient swimmers should be fine. You can see a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, coral reefs, and even sea turtles. It is quite a secluded and quiet beach so there isn't other watersports going on, although you may see a paddleboarder pass by from time to time.

Smith's Barcadere, also known as Smith's Cove, is loved by both locals and tourists. It's a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and whilst they all are in the Cayman Islands, Smith's Cove landscape also makes it a fun adventure for young beachcombers and explorers. Visit at the right time on non-cruise ship weekdays and it’s close to perfect for a relaxing and tranquil swim and sunbathe. The cove is dotted with natural rock formations, creating a stunning backdrop for swimming, snorkelling, and even cliff (rock) jumping! There’s well-maintained facilities including restrooms and showers and several shaded picnic tables. Smith's Barcadere is a must-visit spot and charmingly different from Seven Mile Beach.

Governor's Beach, situated on Seven Mile Beach right next to the Governor's House, is renowned for its pristine white sand, clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It's no secret amongst locals that this public beach is ideal for activities such as swimming, snorkelling near the offshore reef, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and for coming together with friends. There are a few picnic tables and shade closer to the car park. Fortunately, the beach at this location is still quite wide, so bring all your own seating, shade and refreshments to enjoy how perfect a beach it is. That being said, a very short walk away, there are also restaurants and bars and other vendors based in the hotels, ready to supply watersports equipment amongst other things.

Starfish Point is a secluded beach in Grand Cayman that is famous for its abundance of starfish. The water here is very shallow, making it a great place to snorkel and see the starfish up close. It's also great for young children to explore and learn the marine environment in relative safety. There is ample parking and the site can be reached by car or by boat. The beach also has public restrooms. There are no onsite vendors but Rum Point restaurant is nearby.

Public Beach is the largest and most popular public beach on Seven Mile Beach. It is located on West Bay Road just south of the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa. The beach has a wide expanse of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling amongst a host of other watersports and fun beach activities.

Spott's Beach is a snorkeller's paradise. There are very few amenities, just the basics such as a portaloo and the odd, shaded picnic table. There are no vendors, so make sure to bring your own refreshments, if making an afternoon of it. The snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming are all first rate here and there is sufficient parking. Keep an eye on children, due to the current.

Cayman Kai Public Beach offers excellent snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. There's basic restrooms, a single cabana and substantial parking. Convenient on-site washrooms ensure a comfortable visit. This is a secluded and tranquil oasis, the type of Cayman escape that requires you to bring your own cooler, seating and shade, but its definitely worth the extra effort. There's no on-site vendors or amenities, but then that is part of its castaway charm. However, there are plenty of amenities available a few minutes drive away at Rum Point and Kaibo Beach Restaurant.

West Bay Public Beach is a serene shoreline spot that caters to a laid-back day in the sun. Situated on the quiet north end of Seven Mile Beach, it offers ample, white sandy space for relaxation and embraces the typical Caribbean vibe. The beach provides a decent range of amenities, including a limited number of public changing rooms and toilets. Alfresco restaurant is nearby for a convenient lunch option and Foster’s Republix supermarket is within walking distance for those interested in a picnic. Public cabanas with seating, shaded areas, and a small number of parking spaces near the ramp enhance the overall convenience.

Colliers Beach is large and relatively flat on the eastern tip of the island. The sand is not particularly deep, so it may suit the elderly to visit this spot, as it is level and very easy to walk on. It beckons visitors with simple amenities, including a dock, basic wooden cabanas and picnic areas for leisure. On the periphery there are several trees providing shade. If travelling by car, there are ample car parking spaces and the site has facilities such as showers and toilets. If using public transport, there is a bus stop conveniently located at the entrance to the beach area.

Heritage Beach - If ever there was a spot in Cayman where you could lose track of time for good, it would be this beach. Close to the road but far from reality, it has the feel of a lakeside retreat in southern France, rather than a beach in the Caribbean. It is far easier to soak up the tranquility to be found there, rather than swimming or some other activity, and it is perfect for a picnic in a picturesque setting. Parking is quite limited, with a small driveway available for maneuvering, but there is a single central cabana surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna. Whispers of the past and a life more simple can be heard whistling through the Casuarina Pine trees as your thoughts drift off towards the blue horizon.